Liverpool may face a battle to keep hold of one of their star players next summer after Real Madrid were linked with a move for Trent Alexander-Arnold.

What's the story?

According to Spanish outlet DefensaCentral (as relayed by the Liverpool ECHO), Los Blancos could be in the market for a new right-back in 12 months' time as they want extra competition for Dani Carvajal.

The report states that Madrid's hierarchy have identified three possible options that the La Liga giants have on their radar, with Youcef Atal and Reece James joining Alexander-Arnold on their shortlist.

Liverpool fans may be worried

Although the 22-year-old Liverpool ace was one of several first-team stars to sign a new long-term contract back in July, keeping him at the club until 2025, the supporters may still be worried over the local lad's future.

In the past, fellow academy graduates Steve McManaman and Michael Owen have been prized away from their boyhood club after the lure of Madrid became too strong, and there could be a worry that the same could happen to Alexander-Arnold.

The 13-time European champions may not be as strong as they once were, but the Bernabeu will always be an exciting and extremely tempting place to play football.

Losing the influential right-back would come as a bitter blow for Jurgen Klopp and his plans to return Liverpool to the Premier League summit during his time at the club.

In 184 appearances for the Reds in all competitions, the England international has bagged 10 goals whilst providing an incredible 47 assists, highlighting his importance to Klopp's successful system.

Alexander-Arnold has played a pivotal part in Liverpool's recent Champions League, Premier League, FIFA Club World Cup and UEFA Super Cup victories, and his departure would be a significant setback in the club's development.

Nevertheless, his recent show of commitment by putting pen to paper on fresh terms should reassure Klopp and the fans alike that his immediate future lies on Merseyside, but things can often change quickly in football.

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